Attractive shower tile patterns can greatly enhance your bathroom decor. Apart from adding value to your bathroom decoration, shower tiles can provide protection to the bathroom wall and floor from any water damage. There are many different types of tiles available today, which can give a stylish look to your bathroom. Bathroom is probably the first place we go to in the morning. So why not choose some vibrant color and designs for the tiles, which can set the mood for the entire day. Shower tile installation process is a challenging task, but following the steps given below will make it easier for you.
Proper Installation Instructions
Before starting, make sure you have all the tools and materials like tiles, tile grout, measurement tape, sponge, tile adhesive and tile spacers. After gathering all these tools and materials start out on installing the tiles by following the steps given below.
Step 1 - Select Appropriate Tiles
Choosing the right tiles from the wide variety of tiles available is a haunting task. The selection of the tiles should be such that it complements the bathroom interior. The entire cost may rise according to the type, style and quality of the tile you choose. So also keep the budget in mind while choosing the tiles.
Step 2 - Protecting Shower and Bathroom
Installing these tiles can be a very messy process, so you must take necessary precautions to protect the bathroom flooring and also the shower. Cover all the bathroom tiles with plastic or paper cover. Also cover the shower and the nearby cabinets. Block the drainage hole with a plastic covering. The drainage can get blocked because of the debris.
Step 3 - Removing Old Tiles
Now the actual work begins, wear protective eye gear, cover your mouth with cloth and wear your gloves. You need to get rid of the grout from surrounding areas of the old tile. Use hammer and chisel to remove the old tiles.
Step 4 - Measurements
Now mark the wall area that is to be covered with tiles. Mark the horizontal and vertical lines. Also check for any holes in the wall and patch them up. Make sure that the area for the curved tiles is appropriate. If the curved tiles are not fitting properly, you may have to trim the tiles with a tile cutter. Take measurements without any mistakes, so that the next steps will be hassle free. As the area may never be perfectly square, start marking from the midpoint of the wall. Then chalk the outlines of the tiles to form a proper layout of all the tiles to be installed. Make sure that the squares are accurate and there is proper symmetry.
Step 5 - Applying Adhesive and Installing Tiles
Always start from the center line and apply the adhesive with the help of the smooth side of a notched trowel. Do not apply adhesive on every marked position of the tile, it may dry out. So work in sections and install the tiles accordingly. Try to fix the first tile at the center in a twisted motion to make sure it properly leveled and fitted. Also place the tile spacers as you install each tile, so that the grout line remains equal. The adhesive may take about one day to dry, after which you can start with grouting.
Step 6 - Grouting
The last step is grouting. Remember to use only a waterproof grout. Use a rubber float and apply the grout between the tiles. Clean the extra grout with the help of a wet sponge. Apply the grout thoroughly and make sure that it is reaching deep into the gaps. Clean the tile surface with a wet cloth and leave the grout to dry for one day.
As you can see there is no special skill required to do this job, you just need to make a proper and accurate layout. I hope the above instructions help you install the tiles successfully. All the best!
